LaTroy Hawkins might not be the best relief pitcher in baseball or even close to it, but the man is highly regarded as a good clubhouse presence and someone who is there for his teammates. The man is widely respected for his demeanor.
This season, Hawkins chose to wear number 21 to honor Roberto Clemente. But in Yankees lore, #21 will always belong to Paul O'Neill. Fans have booed Hawkins incessantly for it, even chanting Paul O'Neill.
Paul O' Neill was a great Yankee. I loved his style of play and he is a guy that will forever be a Yankee and part of the dynasty. But his numbers were not retirement worthy. He was a great player, but his number right now isn't worthy of being retired.
Hawkins was trying to honor Roberto Clemente, and instead, got booed for it. Now, he is changing his number to 22 to avoid all of this (which might even cause booing because its Roger's number).
Yankee fans need to smarten up a little and let it be.
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